Cape St Blaize Lighthouse in Mossel Bay, Western Cape
The Cape St Blaize Lighthouse is situated in Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, South Africa.
Mossel Bay was named for the many mussels that once adorned the bay. Mussels add to the sharpness and danger of the coastline and so the town decided to erect a lighthouse. In March of 1864, the square, white lighthouse was completed atop the magnificent cliffs of St Blaize.
Candlepower | Approx. 450 000 C.D. |
---|---|
Character of Light | Group flashing every 15 seconds |
Installation Date | 15 March 1864 |
Range | 16 sea miles |
Structure | Square masonry tower painted white |
Type of Light | Electric-revolving |
Other features | Fog signal and radio beacon |
The lighthouse stands 52 metres above sea level and the tower is 20.5 metres high. From the top, visitors have the most incredible views. It was originally lit by a
fountain lamp showing a single red light which could be seen for 15 nautical miles. It was electrified in 1931 and the foghorn was installed in 1914.
The Cape St Blaize Lighthouse is one of only two manned lighthouses on the South African coast today with a senior Light Keeper and a couple of Light Keepers who assist with radio watch.
Things to do and see
- Tours of the Lighthouse
- Curios & memorabilia
- Cape St Blaize Caves
Admission
No admission fee is charged.
Climate
Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 16˚C and 27˚C with high rainfall in March and October.
Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 7˚C and 21˚C with the lowest rainfall in June and July.
Transport
Commercial Airlines offer flights into George Airport, 50 km from Mossel Bay. Car hire facilities are located at the Airports.
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